KMA Destroys K’si Criminals’ Den

THE KUMASI Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has demolished over 500 wooden structures at Bayakasua slum behind the COCOBOD building in Kumasi.

The slum has over the years reportedly served as breeding grounds for criminals, who terrorise law-abiding residents of Kumasi and other parts of the Ashanti Region.

The Bayakasua slum is also noted for promoting illegal activities such as prostitution and the sale of illicit drugs, which has the tendency of destroying the youth.

Residents of Kumasi have consistently urged city authorities to take a strict action to ensure that criminals at Bayakasua slum would be expelled from there once and for all, but to no avail.

The current Kumasi Mayor, Richard Ofori Agyeman Boadi, who has promised to make the Bayakasua slum a thing of the past, carried out massive demolition exercise few days ago.

The KMA Chief Executive, who is nicknamed as ‘Zuba’ in political circles, personally left the comfort of his office to supervise the demolition exercise at the Bayakasua slum.

The demolition exercise was supported by personnel of the police, the military, KMA Metro Guards, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), and Ghana Water Limited.

The ECG retrieved over 100 illegally connected electricity meters, while Ghana Water Limited also disconnected illegal water connections and repaired damaged pipelines during the exercise.

In a related development, some affected people were said to have become stranded after the demolition exercise.

According to reports, some of the affected people have stayed at Bayakasua all their life, and never expected to be expelled from the place.

Meanwhile, scores of residents of Kumasi have heaped tons of praises on the Kumasi Mayor for having the courage to destroy Bayakasua, which they considered as criminals den.

Tsitsipas Claims First ATP Title In 16 Months

Stefanos Tsitsipas has won his first ATP title in 16 months after defeating Raphael Collignon in the Swiss Open final.

The former world number three and two-time Grand Slam finalist overcame the Belgian 6-4 6-7 (3-7) 6-3 to claim the 13th ATP title of his career.

Tsitsipas’ last title was the Dubai Open in March 2025, where he beat Felix Auger-Aliassime in straight sets.

‘I would like to start by mentioning how amazing the final was today,’ said the Greek, who will climb from 85 to 55 in the updated world rankings on Monday.

‘It’s been a long time so it does mean a lot to me.’

Tsitsipas impressed on serve in Sunday’s final in Gstaad, hitting four aces and no double faults.

He won 21 of 29 of his second-serve points and saved two break points from four faced.

It was the 27-year-old’s sixth clay court title of his career, most notably winning the Monte Carlo Masters in 2021, 2022 and 2024.

The 24-year-old Collignon, ranked 42 in the world, was competing in his first ever ATP final.

Morgan Nero’s ‘Vovome’ Video Hits YouTube

The much awaited official video of ‘Vovome’ by Ghanaian artiste, Morgan Nero, is out on streaming platform YouTube.

Morgan Nero has urged fans to stream the song, saying, ‘Vovome Official Music Video is Out Now. Watch, like, comment, share and subscribe! Let’s run it up together.’

Morgan Nero walked away with an award at the 2026 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) after a night celebrating the best in Ghanaian music. The win adds to Nero’s growing profile as one of the acts pushing Ghanaian sound both locally and internationally.

Fans and industry players took to social media to congratulate him, praising his consistency, stagecraft, and the impact of his music over the past year.

NPP In Emergency Talks Over Wontumi Verdict

The leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) are holding an emergency meeting to deliberate on the High Court judgment handed down against the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

The closed-door meeting brought together the party’s national executives, its flagbearer and legal team to assess the implications of the court’s ruling in the Samreboi mining case and determine the party’s next line of action.

A statement signed by the NPP General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, said the emergency meeting was convened to undertake a thorough review of the judgment and chart an appropriate legal and political response.

‘The leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), together with our Flagbearer and the Party’s legal team, is currently in a meeting to thoroughly review the judgment delivered by the Court… and to determine the appropriate next course of action,’ the statement said.

The party assured its members and the public that it would announce its official position after the ongoing deliberations.

It also called on supporters across the country to remain calm and united while the leadership concludes its consultations.

‘In the meantime, I respectfully urge all members of our great Party to rally behind the leadership during this challenging moment. Let us remain calm, united, disciplined and steadfast in our commitment to the values and interests of the New Patriotic Party,’ the statement added.

The emergency meeting follows the High Court’s conviction and sentencing of Chairman Wontumi in the Samreboi mining case, a development that has generated widespread political interest and reaction across the country.

Adu-Boahene Trial: AG Admits Absence Of ‘Key Evidence’

The trial of former Director-General of National Signals Bureau (NSB), Kwabena Adu-Boahene, and two others has taken a new turn after the Office of the Attorney General (AG) admitted that it is not in possession of several key documents relating to the controversial GHS49.1 million transaction at the centre of the case.

In a response dated July 1, 2026, filed before the High Court following an order by the Court of Appeal, a Principal State Attorney, Esi Dentaa Yankah, disclosed that the AG’s Office has been unable to produce crucial records requested by the defence, including documents linked to the source and purpose of the GHS49.1 million lodged into a National Security Coordinator’s special operations account and subsequently transferred to B.N.C Communications Bureau Limited’s account with Universal Merchant Bank (UMB).

The Court of Appeal on May 28, 2026, allowed in most part an appeal by Adu-Boahene and his wife against the AG over disclosure of evidence in the ongoing trial.

Aside specific orders to the prosecution to disclose missing bank statement pages, the court ordered full disclosure of information relating to the source and purpose of the said GHS49.1 million at the heart of the case, as well as portions of the files of the National Security that are connected to the matter.

The court also ordered the disclosure of the National Security Coordinator’s special operations accounts linked to Adu-Boahene, and information from National Security concerning Angela Adjei-Boateng, relating to the special purpose accounts opened at UMB.

AG’s Response

Responding to the orders, the prosecution admitted that it was unable to produce any of the disclosures ordered by the Court of Appeal.

The prosecution explained that it has not obtained the complete bank statement pages covering pages 2 to 89 of Advantage Solutions Limited’s account with UMB Bank, which was filed before the court on June 2, 2025.

According to the state, the defence already has possession of the said documents after they were tendered through the second prosecution witness and admitted into evidence as Exhibit 15 and Exhibit 15A.

The prosecution also acknowledged that it was unable to disclose the source of the GHS49.1 million allegedly converted by the state into US$7 million, which forms part of allegations surrounding the acquisition of a cyber defence system.

In its response to the Court of Appeal’s directive, the prosecution stated that it has not come into possession of, and is unable to disclose, the National Security files kept by former National Security Coordinator Joshua Kyeremeh concerning the acquisition of the cyber defence system.

The state also indicated that it is unable to disclose correspondence from Mr. Kyeremeh or any previous National Security Coordinator relating to the vetting of the second accused person, Angela Adjei Boateng, her alleged role as a confidential source of assistance to National Security, or the opening of special purpose accounts for undercover operations using UMB as the banking institution.

Additionally, the prosecution revealed that it has not obtained the National Security Coordinators’ special operations account records and cannot provide information from the immediate past National Security Coordinator on whether the GHS49.1 million was intended solely for the importation of the cyber defence system.

‘The prosecution is therefore unable to produce the requested documents,’ the Principal State Attorney, Esi Dentaa Yankah, stated emphatically.

Meanwhile, the defence team of Mr. Adu-Boahene, formally requested the Attorney General to produce key documents it says are necessary for a fair trial and full disclosure in the ongoing trial.

In a Notice to Produce Documents filed on April 10, 2026, at the High Court, counsel for the accused persons, led by Samuel Atta Akyea, demanded access to documents relating to the Bureau of National Communications (BNC) account, alleged landed properties, and a vehicle said to have been acquired with public funds.

The defence also sought the written approval from the Controller and Accountant-General for the opening of the account named ‘Bureau of National Communications’, together with the 2020 Auditor-General’s Report relating to the account.

The request follows references by the Attorney General to the account as a ‘State-owned BNC’ or ‘National BNC’ during the prosecution’s case.

The defence demanded the documents to establish the basis for the creation of the account and the legitimacy of transactions carried out through it.

Additionally, Mr. Atta Akyea demanded the production of the title deeds, deeds of conveyance, addresses of the properties, bank statements and receipts relating to landed properties allegedly acquired or constructed by Adu-Boahene in Accra, Kumasi and London.

The defence contended that the documents are required to verify claims that public funds were used in acquiring the said properties and to allow the accused persons adequately respond to the allegations brought against them.

The legal team also requested bank statements and receipts showing the transfer of alleged public funds to acquire a locally used 2023 BMW 740D vehicle from Philip Brobbey.

AG’s Inability

In a response, the Office of the Attorney General stated that it has not come into possession of the key records relating to the Bureau of National Communications (BNC) account, documents on alleged properties attributed to Adu-Boahene, and bank records concerning the purchase of a 2023 BMW 740D.

The response, dated April 20, 2026, and filed at the High Court on April 21, 2026, was signed by Principal State Attorney Esi Dentaa Yankah on behalf of the Attorney General.

‘Please be informed that the prosecution has not come into possession of the written approval of the account opening by the Controller and Accountant-General, nor the 2020 Auditor-General’s report in relation to the accounts named Bureau of National Communications,’ the response stated.

The Attorney General’s Office also indicated that all documents in its possession regarding the ownership, identification, and locations of properties allegedly linked to Adu-Boahene during investigations had already been disclosed to the defence.

The prosecution added that it had not obtained any additional documentation beyond what had already been provided.

RMD Calls For End To Violence Against Women

Veteran Nollywood actor, Richard Mofe-Damijo, RMD popularly known as RMD, has called on men to stop abusing women and treat them with respect.

Speaking at an event in Abuja after joining the Male Feminists Network, RMD said violence should never be used to correct or control women.

‘Treat women with respect and dignity. Don’t objectify them and don’t beat them. It is better to talk to people than to use your fists,’ he said.

The actor also appealed to men to support the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), saying it is a responsibility that should not be left to women alone.

According to him, both men and women must work together to end violence and protect the rights of women.

RMD further encouraged greater inclusion of women in leadership positions, especially in government, expressing confidence in their ability to deliver results.

Also speaking at the event, gender advocate, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, said traditional rulers, religious leaders and other influential people can help reduce gender-based violence by speaking against abuse and promoting respect for women.

Stars Console Smallgod Over Mother’s Passing

THE MUSIC and creative community turned out in full force on Saturday, July 18, to console Ghanaian music executive, Smallgod, following the passing of his mother, Rosemary Manu.

The one-week observance was held at the East Legon Executive Club where family, friends, and industry colleagues gathered to honour her memory and support Smallgod during the difficult period.

Several big names from music, business, and entertainment were present. They included music sensation Efya, Gyakie, Darkovibes, Killbeatz, Hajia4Real, Ghanaian entrepreneur Nana Kwame Bediako, Dr. Ofori Sarpong, and Kwame Despite, among others.

The outpouring was, in many ways, a reflection of the bond Smallgod shared with his mother. Prior to her demise, he was often seen with Rosemary Manu on social media, openly expressing affection and admiration for her. Widely referred to as a ‘mummy’s boy,’ his closeness to her drew many to attend the one-week ceremony to pay their respects. Those who spoke at the gathering described her as a warm, supportive woman who was proud of her son’s journey in music.

For Smallgod, the loss has cut deep, but the presence of loved ones offered comfort as he and the family mourn.

Smallgod is the founder of Small World Records and is widely known for building bridges between African and global artistes. He recently released ‘Ashes’ featuring AratheJay and Suspect OTB. He also collaborated with Sarkodie and Joshua Baraka on the ‘Fire Remix,’ a blend of Afrobeats and Afro-fusion.

His reputation as ‘The Ghanaian Connector’ grew after earlier successes like ‘Fallen Angel’ with Black Sherif, and through projects under his Building Bridges album and label. Other notable works include ‘Sinner’ with UK’s Headie One, Kwaku DMC, and O’Kenneth, as well as the viral ‘GIDI GIDI’ with Tory Lanez and Black Sherif.

He also runs the creative nonprofit Creative Accra. In May 2026, 4Syte TV highlighted Smallgod’s role in facilitating the ‘NFANA IBAGA Remix’ with 2Face, Reggie Rockstone, and Beenie Man.

Resetting The Rule Of Law

Whoever coined the phrase ‘packing the courts’ did well because it captures the true meaning of making so many appointments onto the bench to achieve a goal.

Today, as the President does so as he has the authority to do, constitutionally, he only reminds us about what he told National Democratic Congress (NDC) lawyers he would do when he returns to Jubilee House – appoint those of them who would make themselves available for such appointments.

President John Mahama used the ‘packing the courts’ phrase against then President Akufo-Addo when following created vacancies occasioned by retirements, the latter made replacement nominations.

At a time when the President is walking his promise of changing the face of the judiciary, from a Unanimous SC to an NDC balanced one, questions are being rightly posed about the integrity of his project.

Had the President not said what he did when he met a group of pro-NDC lawyers in the Volta Region during his opposition days, his ongoing project of elevating judges from their current statuses to higher positions on the bench, perhaps he would not have come under public opprobrium as he is now.

While we respect the many years of service of these wonderful gentlemen and ladies who have caught his eyes and on the verge of reaching the highest level of their career, we fret about how his pre-election rhetoric is going to impact their integrity.

The new norm for people who have cases in the courts to want to find out when the judges were appointed to their current positions is an outcome of the President’s misguided rhetoric while in the opposition trench.

Last week was hectic with many Ghanaians expressing concerns about the many developments on the political space.

With the passage of the public tribunal system into law by the NDC-dominated House of Parliament, the nightmare of the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) era flashed in the memories of those who witnessed those kangaroo courts and others who read about them.

Packing the courts and the passage of the tribunal law only creates a worrying opportunity for the cadre and revolution mentality NDC apparatchiks to circumvent the rule of law.

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has expressed opposition to the return of the system but rather belatedly. Why did this umbrella body of Ghanaian workers sit down for this long until the Majority did as they want in Parliament?

With a time limit given the tribunals to deal with cases and come to conclusions, we cannot hold back apprehension about the nature of these courts and how it would prepare the grounds for political vendetta to play out.

With only the chairpersons expected to be lawyers with many years of practice behind them, other members do not necessarily have to be legal minds.

We think that the ruling party will manipulate this arrangement and have empaneled NDC-friendly personalities to push an agenda.

With such traits already noticeable in the normal system, this fear can only be expected.

We have come a long way from the national effort of healing through the National Reconciliation Commission (NRC) that the thought of a return of the kangaroo system churns the stomach of many.

Two Dead, Two Injured In Gory Asuboi Crash

TWO PERSONS have been confirmed dead and two others severely injured following a fatal road accident involving a Hyundai truck with registration number GX 7359-14 and a KIA Rhino with registration number GX 857-16 on the Accra-Kumasi Highway at Asuboi on Saturday, July 18, 2026.

In a statement issued by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), officers from the Suhum Municipal Fire Station responded to a distress call received at 09:01hrs. A crew of six personnel led by Station Officer Antwi Forson was dispatched at 09:03hrs and arrived at the scene at 09:13hrs.

According to the GNFS, firefighters found casualties trapped in the wreckage and immediately deployed extrication equipment to rescue them. The victims were later handed over to personnel from the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Ambulance Service for transportation to the Suhum Government Hospital.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the KIA Rhino, which was traveling from the Upper West Region to Accra, suffered a front tyre burst. The driver reportedly lost control and crashed into the Hyundai truck. The accident involved four casualties in total – two fatalities and two injured.

Both vehicles sustained extensive damage. The front section of the Hyundai truck was badly damaged, while the KIA Rhino’s front section and one tyre were completely destroyed.

’Unmask This Dangerous Man’

A registered owner of a land at Abehenease near Amasaman in Accra has expressed concern about how an unknown person has destroyed the fence wall of his property.

The owner, Frank Dan Enyimayew, claims that the crime was committed at a time when he was not present at the location. To provide security for the property, he has engaged a welder to occupy the place, who was not present when the hoodlums came to demolish the wall.

A structure is also on the property which, according to him, contains an assortment of building materials which he intends to use for the project.

The yet-to-be identified person, he said, could be someone who is on the prowl, damaging property of persons who duly acquired same.

He has called on the Amasaman Police to assist in unmasking the person behind the destruction of property duly acquired by their owners and to bring him before the law.

‘I bought the property from the rightful owners of the land, Nii Awuah III, head of the Nii Awuah-Amanfro Family of Abehenase of Accra and duly registered it at the Lands Registry,’ he said.

‘Imagine working for so many years and investing one’s life’s savings into a project only for a devious person to come and do this to me,’ he told DAILY GUIDE.

He said he has reported the case to the Amasaman Police whose personnel have visited the scene and taken pictures as part of their investigations.

Following what has befallen him, other property owners who are yet to commence construction even though they have walled the land are said to be living in fear, not knowing whether or not they would be next.